Posthumous eye donation has the potential to transform lives by restoring vision to those blinded by corneal damage. In Bangladesh, where approximately 14 lakh people live with blindness and 5 lakh could regain sight through corneal transplants, the significance of this practice is profound. Despite increasing awareness, significant barriers remain, including societal hesitation, familial resistance, and logistical challenges. However, through the efforts of dedicated individuals, voluntary organizations, and awareness campaigns, a growing number of people are pledging to donate their eyes, driven by the desire to bring light to someone else's life even after their death.
Awareness about posthumous eye donation has increased in recent years, but successfully completing the process remains a significant challenge. While many express interest, stakeholders note that it often fails to materialize.
Personal Stories of Eye Donors
Hriday faced initial hesitation from his family, as two family members’ signatures were required for the application. “My parents were apprehensive at first,” he said. “Of the three family members, I couldn’t convince my father. However, my mother and sister eventually agreed. Now, I am even willing to donate my entire body.”
Similarly, Zahid Hasan Sumon, a mechanical engineer from Gazipur, overcame familial objections. Reflecting on his effort to persuade his family, he said, “A blind man lived next door to us when I was young. I saw firsthand the struggles he faced in daily life. From that experience, I felt compelled to help others by donating my cornea.”
Challenges and Efforts in Bangladesh
Thanthi Chakshudan Samiti, a voluntary organization, has been working to collect corneas since 1984. According to the organization, there are approximately 14 lakh blind individuals in the country, with 5 lakh suffering blindness due to corneal damage. A corneal transplant could restore vision for these individuals.
Despite these numbers, progress is slow. Saiful Islam Chowdhury, the coordinator of the organization, shared that while about 45,000 people have pledged to donate their eyes—including prominent figures like Subarna Mostafa, Asaduzzaman Noor, and Sheikh Hasina—only 131 corneas have been collected over four decades. “Many families still resist due to fear and misconceptions,” he said.
To address this, online platforms like Anger Kahe Jachi - Posthumous Eye Donation are actively raising awareness. Its founder, Subrata Dev, noted growing interest, particularly among the youth. The platform collaborates with Sandhani Ophthalmology Society, the organization authorized to collect and distribute corneas in Bangladesh. Through their website, individuals can register for eye donation from the comfort of their homes. Additionally, volunteers are conducting campaigns across various districts, leveraging social media to spread the message.
Religious Perspectives on Eye Donation
As efforts continue to overcome social and cultural barriers, stories like those of Hriday and Sumon inspire hope for a brighter, more inclusive future.
The journey toward widespread acceptance of posthumous eye donation in Bangladesh is marked by both progress and challenges. While awareness and interest, especially among the youth, are on the rise, societal and cultural hesitations continue to hinder the full potential of this life-changing initiative. Personal stories of donors like Hriday and Sumon, alongside the tireless efforts of organizations and online platforms, highlight the power of individual resolve and collective action. With growing awareness, religious clarity, and persistent advocacy, there is hope that more lives can be illuminated through the selfless act of eye donation.